Selenium health

Selenium was identified as an essential trace mineral for humans in the 1970s. The average adult body contains about 20 mg of selenium and most of this is concentrated in the kidneys, liver, heart, spleen and testes.

Benefits

Antioxidant activity

As part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, selenium acts as an antioxidant. It is extremely powerful and protects red blood cells and cell membranes from free radical damage. Selenium works closely with vitamin E and may enhance its function. Glutathione peroxidase seems to be able to protect against the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.

Immune system

Selenium is important in maintaining resistance to disease. It may enhance the production and effectiveness of white blood cells and protect them from the free radicals they generate in the process of fighting infection. It also appears to increase antibody production, and strengthen the body's surveillance of abnormal cell growth and cancer.

Hormones

A selenium-dependent enzyme is involved in the metabolism of thyroid hormones. Studies have shown that thyroid hormones in elderly people are influenced by selenium status.

Other functions

Selenium is involved in maintaining normal liver function, protein synthesis and protecting against toxic minerals such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury and lead. It plays a role in promoting male sexual reproductive capacity and maintaining healthy eyes, hair and skin. It may be involved in the metabolism of prostaglandins which control inflammation.

Absorption and metabolism

Organic selenium, such as that found in yeast, is more efficiently absorbed than inorganic salts.